Springbok legend joins Umhlali Prep as director of rugby
Capped three times for the Springboks, Hugh Reece-Edwards was a key member of the Natal side that famously lifted the Currie Cup in the province's centenary year in 1990 and again in 1992.
Former Springbok fullback Hugh Reece-Edwards has been appointed director of rugby at Umhlali Preparatory School, officially taking the reins on November 1.
The 64-year-old will oversee the school’s rugby programme from U8 to U13 and serve as head coach of the 1st team.
Capped three times for the Springboks, Reece-Edwards was a key member of the Natal side that famously lifted the Currie Cup in the province’s centenary year in 1990 and again in 1992. His coaching career spans high school, club and international rugby, including a stint as South Africa’s backline coach under André Markgraaff in 1996. He later served as head coach of the Sharks in 2000 and has coached in Japan and Italy.
Having spent several years working abroad, Reece-Edwards recently returned to South Africa after a spell in Italy. A tip-off from family about the vacancy at Umhlali sparked his interest.
“I love it here on the North Coast, parts of Salt Rock still feel like a holiday town,” he said.
“Having this job is nice for stability. I’ll be home more.”
Despite never coaching at junior level before, Reece-Edwards is eager to bring his wealth of professional experience to the school. With his pedigree and passion for development, he hopes to elevate Umhlali Prep’s rugby tradition.
“I want to add value. It’s about seeing how my ideas from senior rugby transfer to primary school level. I told the coaches that I’m here to change everything.”
Although the season is still months away, preparations are well underway. With as many as 23 teams expected in 2026, Reece-Edwards has been working closely with existing staff and interviewing new coaches. He plans to host voluntary two-hour clinics for each age group next month to assess the school’s talent pool.
“We must assess where we are skill-wise, not only with the players but also with the coaches. This will help us identify the talent we have for the upcoming season,” he said.
“I want to help Umhlali become even better than they are. It’s not going to happen overnight and it’s not only about results; it’s about improving all the time.”
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